The Police Service (TTPS) is actively working on two separate cases involving the unrelated kidnapping of eight Trinidadians at sea by Venezuelan nationals over the past two weeks.

On Monday, a group of six fishermen were captured with a ransom of US$200,000 demanded for their release. They have been identified as 17-year-old Jagdesh Jaikaran; 28-year-old Brandon Arjoon; 35-year-old Lynton Manohar; 36-year-old Jerry O'Brian; 38-year-old Jason O’Brian and 49-year-old Ricky Rambharose.

Meanwhile, on January 15, two Moruga cousins - Kenrick Morgan, 17, and Kendell Singh, 23, - were abducted at sea with a $US40,000 called for their release.

Loop TT reached out to National Security Minister Stuart Young to enquire into investigations relative to the incidents.

The Minister said he could not reveal too many details but assured that the TTPS was working on the cases.

“The TTPS have been dealing with this matter. As you are aware this is a current matter and accordingly, I cannot provide any details due to the sensitivity and nature of the matter.:

As it relates to the six men taken away by armed men on Monday, Young said they were out of Trinidad waters. He said as a result, it is difficult for Trinidad to intervene but assured that the relevant steps are being taken in the matter.

"It appears that unfortunately, the men were in, or around a river, or river tributary, in Venezuela, when they were held. Trinidad and Tobago has no jurisdiction in Venezuelan waters, rivers or land. Nevertheless, through the TTPS and the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM affairs protocols are being followed for situations such as these.”

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